Emperor and Empress arrive at Haneda Airport on June 26 after concluding their visit to the Netherlands and Belgium on June 26.
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On June 26, Their Majesties Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako returned to Japan, arriving at Haneda Airport on a government aircraft after their official visit to the Netherlands and Belgium. They were welcomed by Crown Prince Akishino (Fumihito) and others.
After returning, the Emperor and Empress issued reflections on their trip, noting that it was their first visit in 13 years to the Netherlands and 27 years to Belgium. They said they were warmly received by members of both royal families, and that the visit brought back memories of their previous trips to both countries.
Cooperation and Efforts Towards Peace
They also commented on scientific institutions they visited, including the Dutch water research institute Deltares and the Belgian semiconductor research center imec. They said they felt these institutions are advancing cutting-edge science while strengthening cooperation with Japan and contributing their findings to society.
The Emperor also reflected on World War II, stating the importance of learning humbly from history, passing on memories of suffering to future generations, and continuing efforts toward peace.
Engagements in Japan
On June 29, the Emperor received a briefing from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the Imperial Palace's Houou-no-ma Hall.
In the early hours of June 30, the Imperial Family watched the Japan vs Brazil match in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup on television at the Imperial Residence.
According to aides, the family were impressed by the Japanese team's determined performance against Brazil. The Emperor also recalled having watched a match between Japan and a Brazilian club team in 1967, noting that he felt Japanese football had advanced significantly since then.
On July 1, the Emperor participated in the imperial ritual Shun-sai, held at the Imperial Sanctuary within the Imperial Palace, praying for the peace and well-being of the nation. Afterward, the Emperor expressed appreciation to a group of volunteers who had assisted with the purification ceremonies.
On July 2, Princess Aiko, the daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, received an academic lecture at the Imperial Residence from Professor Emeritus Yasuhiko Arakawa of the University of Tokyo.
Princess Hitachi and Princess Takamado
Princess Hitachi (Hanako), who also serves as Honorary President of the Japan Equestrian Federation, met with current and former presidents of the federation at the Hitachi residence in Tokyo's Shibuya Ward on June 29.
Princess Takamado (Hisako) attended the inauguration ceremony and reception for officials of the 78th H.I.H. Prince Takamado Trophy All Japan Inter-Middle School English Oratorical Contest held at the Yomiuri Shimbun Tokyo headquarters on June 27.
On June 29, Princess Takamado also visited Hotel New Otani Tokyo to attend a gala luncheon marking the 70th anniversary of the Ikebana International Tokyo Founding Chapter, of which she serves as Honorary President.
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Author: The Sankei Shimbun
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